It’s been said, “Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body.”

That being said, we need to exercise both our minds and our bodies if we are to stay fit.

First, take time to read every day. The mind is a muscle and like other muscles, it needs exercise every day. Daily reading will keep your mind strong and alert. Start with 15 minutes a day.

Second, take time to read - good books. It is impossible to read every book. In fact, Solomon wrote, “...of making many books there is no end.” (Ecclesiastes 12:12). The point that Solomon makes is that even in his day there was not enough time to read everything. The same can be said of our day. Read the good books first. Start with The Bible. It is the Book of all Books. Our lives will be measured by it one day.

Third, take time to read books that will build your character. Read the books that will help your grow as a person. When we read we acquire knowledge, the application of the knowledge we acquire is called wisdom. This in turn builds character. Paul the apostle says concerning the Bible, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and (is) profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3: 16,17).

Do you have an exercise program for your mind? Why not start one today?

Michael Harmon is the minister of the Augusta Church of Christ. michael@augcoc.kscoxmail.com